Youth Down South

The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory Youth Department

Youth Down South is a dynamic, weekly Christian podcast tailored to support youth ministry, specifically within The Salvation Army. It offers practical insights, meaningful conversations with notable guests, and deep dives into many different topics. Whether you’re a youth leader, an engaged young adult, or involved in church ministry, this podcast aims to encourage and equip you in your journey.

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23 episodes
weekly
Avg 27 min
English

Episodes 23

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#97
Tuesday · 23 min
SSC 2027: Quadruple the Ministry!
Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) is back for 2027 — and this year, we’re quadrupling the ministry! In this episode, Emma sits down with Kara Rodriguez, Territorial Young Adult & Mission Coordinator, to reflect on SSC 2026 and look ahead to what’s coming in 2027. Kara shares more about what SSC is, what goes on behind the scenes, and how locations are selected for each team. Plus, we’re talking about all FOUR destinations for SSC 2027: France, Panama, Puerto Rico, and South Africa! We’ll also cover who can apply, important dates, and what you need to know if you’re interested in being part of an SSC team. Whether you’ve served on SSC before or you’re wondering if 2027 might be your year, this episode is for you! Applications are live now through January 15, 2027 on youthdownsouth.org
#96
September 22 · 23 min
International Youth Congress 2027
In this episode of Youth Down South, Majors Matt and Jamie Satterlee join Emma to talk all things International Youth Congress 2027! From what IYC is and who can attend to when and where it’s happening and how to apply, we’re answering some of the most common questions and helping you get ready for IYC 2027.
#95
September 15 · 26 min
Meet the Chief - Colonel Brian Saunders
In this episode of Youth Down South, Emma Edelman and Major Matt Satterlee welcome Colonel Brian Saunders, the new Chief Secretary for The Salvation Army Southern Territory. Get to know Colonel Saunders as he shares about his ministry journey, his passion for the mission of The Salvation Army, and his heart for young people and the Southern Territory.
#94
September 8 · 1 hr 3 min
Digging Deeper - with Caleb Louden
Caleb Louden joins us for a conversation about helping teens and young adults move beyond simply reading the Bible to truly understanding and engaging with it. We talk about biblical literacy, practical ways to dig deeper into Scripture, and how to make time in God’s Word a meaningful part of everyday life.
#93
September 1 · 36 min
First Things First Part 2
As schedules fill up with school, activities, friends, and responsibilities, how can we help teens and pre-teens keep their relationship with God a priority? Gloria Diavangama, Territorial Student Ministries Coordinator, joins us to talk about practical ways parents and youth leaders can encourage teens and pre-teens to build lasting habits of prayer, Bible reading, and spending time with God. Mentioned in this episode: - The E 100 Bible Reading Plan from https://scriptureunion.global/resources/e100/ - The 'Scroll the Bible' app https://faith.tools/app/10923-scroll-the-bible
#92
August 25 · 36 min
First Things First Part 1
As a new school year begins, busy schedules can make it easy for time with God to get pushed aside. Melissa Powell, Territorial Children’s Ministries Coordinator, joins us to share practical ways parents and youth leaders can help children make God and His Word a priority and build habits that can last a lifetime.
#91
August 18 · 19 min
The Story Continues with Tim Benitez
Join Youth Down South hosts Emma Edelman and Major Matt Satterlee as they sit down with Tim Benitez, guest speaker for TYI 2026. In this conversation, Tim shares about his ministry, his passion for investing in the next generation, and why he was excited to return to TYI for a second year. Together, they discuss the strengths they see in today's young people, the importance of staying rooted in God's Word, and the vital role that youth leaders, volunteers, officers, and parents play in shaping the future of the Church. Whether you're serving in ministry or simply looking for encouragement, this episode offers practical wisdom and a renewed hope for the next generation.
#90
August 11 · 16 min
SSC Team World Cup Recap
Join Emma Edelman as she talks with the SSC World Cup Team about a summer of ministry across North America. From leading Vacation Bible Schools in Vancouver, Seattle, Dallas, and Marietta, to sharing the love of Christ with thousands of soccer fans outside World Cup matches in Dallas, this episode highlights how God worked through every conversation, every opportunity, and every act of service.
#89
August 4 · 13 min
SSC Team New Zealand Recap
Join Emma Edelman as she talks with the SSC New Zealand Team about their incredible summer mission trip. Hear stories of serving others, experiencing a new culture, witnessing God at work, and the lasting impact the trip had on their faith and their hearts for ministry.
#88
July 28 · 13 min
SSC Team Argentina Recap
Join Emma Edelman as she talks with the SSC Argentina Team about their unforgettable summer mission trip. Hear firsthand stories of serving others, seeing God at work, overcoming challenges, and how the experience strengthened their faith and perspective on missions.
#87
July 21 · 29 min
Women In Ministry
What does ministry really look like? Join Emma Edelman as she talks with Major Frances Pangrazio and Major Joy Robbins about the many ways women faithfully serve God's Kingdom. From behind-the-scenes acts of service to leadership and preaching, this encouraging conversation explores God's calling, the importance of mentorship, and how every role in ministry matters.
#86
July 7 · 39 min
REPLAY - Using AI in Ministry (from 2025)
REPLAY from 2025: In this episode, Emma sits down with Major Matt Satterlee and Jon Avery to explore the growing presence of AI in ministry. Together, they unpack the benefits, risks, and ethical questions surrounding tools like ChatGPT—asking how pastors, leaders, and teachers can use technology responsibly while still grounding their work in Scripture, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. From practical ideas to potential pitfalls, this conversation helps listeners navigate whether AI is a helpful tool… or a tempting shortcut in the life of the Church.
#85
June 30 · 21 min
Camp Staff Conversation
This week, we're taking the podcast on the road! Emma Edelman is on location at Camp Grandview, sitting down with members of the summer conservatory staff, Caden Thomas and Tatyana Cummings, for a fun and encouraging conversation about camp life and camp ministry. From lighthearted rapid-fire questions and favorite camp snacks to heartfelt conversations about why they chose to serve and what they hope campers experience this summer, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the people investing in the next generation. Whether you've spent years at camp or have never experienced it yourself, this episode is a reminder that camp is so much more than games and cabins—it's a place where lifelong friendships are formed, faith is strengthened, and lives are transformed through the love of Jesus.
#84
June 16 · 21 min
Summer Encouragement
In this special solo episode of Youth Down South, Emma Edelman shares encouragement for youth leaders, camp staff, officers, volunteers, and ministry teams serving throughout the summer. Whether your days are packed with camps, VBS, and activities or your schedule feels a little quieter, this episode is a reminder that ministry continues beyond programs and events. From staying connected to young people during the summer months to recognizing the value of everyday conversations and unexpected moments, Emma reflects on the many ways God works through faithful service. Join us for a timely reminder that the seeds you plant today can have an impact for years to come.
#83
June 9 · 18 min
Territorial 24/7 Prayer Initiative
In this episode of Youth Down South, host Emma Edelman sits down with Major Anne Westmoreland and special guest Alina Pawar to discuss the exciting new 24/7 Territorial Prayer Initiative launching at Commissioning. Together, they explore the vision behind this territory-wide movement of prayer, its purpose and goals, and how Salvationists of all ages can participate as we journey toward the Territorial Centennial. Listeners will also hear personal insights on the importance of prayer, practical encouragement for helping young people develop a meaningful prayer life, and ways youth leaders can inspire the next generation to seek God faithfully. Whether you're a youth leader, volunteer, officer, parent, or young person, this episode is a powerful reminder that prayer is not just something we do—it is the foundation of everything we are called to be and do.
#82
June 2 · 26 min
Preview: TYI 2026
In this episode, host Emma Edelman is joined by They unpack everything delegates, parents, and leaders need to know about this year’s Territorial Youth Institute—from the theme, special guests, and daily schedule to the tracks, electives, night programs, and application process. Whether you're considering attending for the first time or returning for another unforgettable summer, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the discipleship, leadership development, worship, friendships, and life-changing experiences that make TYI a highlight of the summer.
#81
May 26 · 23 min
Preview: TMI 2026
In this episode of Youth Down South, host Emma Edelman is joined by Tom Hanton and Tim Burleigh from the Territorial Music & Arts Department to talk all things TMI 2026 — (Territorial Music Institute)! Together, they unpack what makes this summer music and arts institute such a meaningful experience for young people across the Southern Territory. From majors and electives to worship, concerts, night programs, and spiritual growth, this conversation gives listeners an inside look at how TMI helps young people develop their gifts, grow in confidence, and use their talents for the Lord. Whether you’re a potential delegate, parent, leader, or simply passionate about music and arts ministry, this episode will leave you inspired by the impact of music and creative arts in the life of our young people and The Salvation Army.
#80
May 19 · 25 min
Equipping the Church: Adult Ministries in Action
This week on the Youth Down South Podcast, we sit down with Major Sandra Pawar, Territorial Mission, Evangelism, and Cultural Ministries Secretary, for a conversation about the exciting ministries, initiatives, and opportunities happening through Adult Ministries across the Southern Territory. From discipleship and leadership development to building stronger intergenerational connections within our corps, this episode is full of encouragement and practical insight for youth leaders, volunteers, and officers alike. Major Pawar also shares about her unique role connected to the United Nations, the heart behind her ministry, and why it’s so important for those serving others to also remain spiritually poured into themselves.
#79
May 12 · 28 min
Two Big Events, One Exciting Summer
Get ready for a big summer across the territory! In this episode of Youth Down South, Emma sits down with returning guest Roberta Simmons-Smith to talk all things Commissioning and Bible Conference. From themes, dates, locations, and special guests to youth programming, childcare, young adult opportunities, worship experiences, and what attendees can expect this year, this episode is packed with helpful information and excitement for two of the territory’s biggest events. Whether you’re planning to attend or just want to hear what’s coming up, this conversation will help you get ready for an incredible season of worship, fellowship, and celebration across the Southern Territory. Commissioning: https://www.usscommissioning.org/ Bible Conference: www.southernbibleconference.org
#78
May 5 · 34 min
The Big Three
There’s a big goal happening across the territory—and it starts at the local level. In this episode of Youth Down South, Emma sits down with Majors Matt and Jamie Satterlee to unpack “The Big Three”—three key youth local officer roles every corps is encouraged to have: Junior Soldier Sergeant, Corps Cadet Counselor, and YPSM. They break down what these roles do, why commissioning matters, and how these positions can strengthen youth ministry at the local level. You’ll also hear how the youth department is supporting this goal through practical training and resources to help leaders thrive. youthdownsouth.org

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